With a fresh start to another semester, opportunities for students to immerse themselves in new cultures arise. On Sep. 23, Oakland University’s International Education department hosted its fall study abroad programs fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students and faculty from different study abroad and study away programs gathered in the Oakland Center’s Habitat to bring information to OU students interested in studying abroad.
While passing between classes or enjoying free time, students had the chance to walk around the exposition featuring various programs, including art and art history in Volterra, Italy; global arts in Ghana; and art, design and Arabic language in Morocco, among others. Student volunteers who had previously attended these programs were present to meet and speak with others exploring their options and to share their experiences abroad. Along with them, program directors and representatives were also present to answer any questions.
International student Marieme Sama was among these student volunteers helping others learn about different study abroad opportunities. Sama already had study abroad experience as an international student at OU from Senegal, her home country, but experiencing other countries remains an interest of hers.
“I actually traveled back to my hometown of Senegal and then from there, I went to Ghana,” Sama said. “For me, it was close culturally to what I was used to, but it was an opportunity to study in a different environment.”
She also emphasized the importance of continuing international education and providing students with the opportunity to experience different cultures.
“It’s a good experience for anyone,” Sama said. “You’re going to learn stuff that you wouldn’t learn from just staying in classes.”
Students curious about study abroad options had over 300 programs in more than 45 countries spanning six continents to choose from and learn more about. There are programs based on students’ majors, desired locations, desired terms and other options.
“Studying other people’s cultures and getting out of your everyday norm to see how other people live and experience everyday life is so important,” Lorna Schluessler, senior student volunteer, said. “It’s truly a life-changing experience.”
Some of OU’s most sought-after study abroad programs are the OU faculty-led programs. Students can go abroad with an OU professor and a group of OU students, by taking a course carefully designed to showcase international perspectives on their field and fit seamlessly into OU’s curriculum.
“I did the professor-led program,” Taylor Marsh, junior student volunteer, said. “We had about a month of class at first, learning about the English monarchy beforehand. Then we spent eleven days in London seeing everything and everywhere we had learned about. It was the experience of a lifetime.”
During the exposition, students were offered freebies and refreshments, while music from different cultures played in the background, helping to create a welcoming atmosphere. A caricature artist was also available, attracting a crowd as students lined up to get their portraits drawn. Students also gathered together after exploring their options in discussion about topics related to future endeavors and goals regarding studies abroad.
“I really want to see what can apply for my major and if I can get credits for taking a class through study abroad,” sophomore Sommer Fishpaw said. “I think it’d be a fun and more immersive experience with my education.”
For students who weren’t able to attend the fair or have further unanswered questions, OU’s International Education department offers tools on its webpage where they can easily access help. Students can schedule appointments with staff for more information and help.
